Special Note: Work is proceeding on the preparation of articles on aspects of the history of the Augustinian Order.

Quick Facts

The Augustinian Historical Institute is the largest North American collection of books and other literary materials relating to the history of the Order of St. Augustine.

St. Augustine was born in Thagaste, Roman North Africa on 13 November 354. After his conversion and baptism he subsequently became bishop of Hippo where he labored indefatigably as monk, pastor, theologian, and spiritual guide until his death on 28 August 430.

The Order of St. Augustine was established in its present form by the Holy See in 1256 under the Rule of St. Augustine from previously existing groups of Religious. The earlier groups belonged to the Late Medieval eremitical movement but were incorporated in the one Order in accord with the structures and norms of the Mendicant Orders. The original name was Hermits of the Order St. Augustine (O.E.S.A.) , but this was changed in 1969 to the Order of Brothers of St. Augustine. Today the abbreviation used is O.S.A.

About Villanova

Villanova University was founded in 1842 by the Order of St. Augustine. To this day, Villanova’s Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition is the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others. There are more than 10,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students in the University’s six colleges.